Gary Lee Howell

Gary Lee Howell, 92 of Altavista & formerly of Huddleston passed away Wednesday, March 4, 2026 at the home of his daughter, Sylvia.  He was born on Tuesday, August 15, 1933, a son of the late William Howell and Ella Ferguson Howell.  He was also preceded in death by his wife, Helen Jean St.Clair Howell, a daughter, Sharon Cox, a grandson, Corey Cox, his brothers, Kenneth Howell (Peggy), Douglas Howell (Carol); his sister, Regina Morgan (Dennis).

He was retired from the Lane Company and was a member of  Palestine Baptist Church.  He was a founding member of the Huddleston Rescue Squad and also served with the Huddleston Fire Department for over 50 years.

He is survived by his daughter, Sylvia Smith (Phillip); his son, Gary Michael Howell; a sister, Eva Elmore,; a brother, Roger Howell (Phyllis); his son-in-law Danny Cox; his grandchildren, Autumn Mayhew (Frankie), Tommy Cox, Timmy Howell, Brooke Patterson (Scott), Mark Smith, April Smith, Peggy English, Jessi Howell, Lauren Walden (Jamie) as well as eighteen great grandchildren.  

The family will receive friends beginning at 10 AM on Saturday, March 7, 2026 at Palestine Baptist Church and a funeral service will follow at 12 noon with Pastor Dave Janney officiating.  Interment, with military honors will follow in Palestine Church Cemetery.  

Arrangements are being handled by Updike Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Huddleston.